In this etching, Judah is pictured giving his staff and a large ring to Tamar. Tamar is seated surrounded by greenery, which symbolizes her fertility. Her name means, "date palm tree." In the background there are sheep and a shepherd, as Genesis 38 tells us that Judah is on his way to shear his sheep with his friend Hirah. The primary action in this piece is contained in a triangle, which is a familiar artistic method that provides balance and draws the eye toward the important objects in the center. The ring and staff that Judah gives to what he thinks is an unknown prostitute will be the items that prove his wickedness in the future.
Title of Art: Judah and Tamar
Subjects: Tamar
Subject Century: 19-17th century B.C. (Unsure)
Ritual Pose/Object: signet ring, staff
Artist: Wenceslas Hollar (1607-1677), after Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543)
Art Form: Illustration
Date of Composition: 1640
Inscription Text: Judah, Tamar
Exhibit Institution: The Met (Public Domain, currently not on display)
Exhibit Location: New York
VM Image #: 0199